edit: plot wise, maybe something with the knights of Elaine or something centered around nobles at high court and parliament and that kind of thing.

Yes, we will be using starting characters with the standard Char Gen Rules in the Players handbook. You my also buy advantages from the Avalon Nation book. Once we nail down the plot, I'll decide what secret societies and other books are allowed.

I cracked open the Pirate nations book. So you guys want to be actual Sea Dogs and part of The Black Dawn's crew? Or Avalon Privateers with your own boat? We will also use the rules in the Pirate Nations book.